’Tis the season to be jolly! But with all the shopping and celebrating, it can be easy to forget about brushing your teeth. Since it’s also the season of cookies, candy, and hot chocolate, good brushing and flossing habits are more important than ever. Caring for your teeth during the holidays isn’t always easy, so follow the tips below for a brighter smile!
Three Tips for Healthy Teeth This Holiday Season
Eat Teeth-Friendly Foods
Instead of helping yourself to a plate of cookies at the next holiday party, snack on the veggies and dip instead. Fresh vegetables have high fiber content, and naturally, scrub your teeth while you chew. And dairy products like cheese slices and ranch dip are rich in calcium, which is very important for building strong teeth. Festive fruit and veggie platters are a great way to keep kids’ teeth healthy during the holidays, too.
If you do start sampling the cookies and candy, remember not to snack on them all day. The longer that sugar stays in your mouth, the more likely it is to cause plaque and tooth decay. Try to save sweet treats and drinks for after meals, and then brush your teeth about 30 minutes later.
Carry a Travel-Size Tooth Care Kit
Whether you’re on the road or just on the go, having a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash with you might come in handy. You never know when you might need some floss to get a stubborn piece of celery unstuck from between your teeth. Or you might want to freshen up your breath before your next team meeting or holiday event.
The holidays can get hectic, and finding time to brush and floss is tricky when your regular schedule gets interrupted. But keeping a travel tooth care kit in your backpack, desk, or car means you can take care of your teeth anywhere you go during the holidays.
Schedule Your Next Cleaning
Just in case you did miss a day or two of brushing and flossing, it’s a good idea to see a dental hygienist after the holidays are over. They can remove any plaque or tartar buildup on your teeth, and clean all the places that normal brushing and flossing don’t reach. They can even polish up your teeth and remove stains.
Before the year is over, schedule an appointment for an exam and cleaning. Not only will your smile look brighter, but your dentist will also be able to catch any warning signs of cavities or gum disease. Starting the new year out with healthy teeth will help you resolve to take good care of them all the rest of the year.
Caring for Your Teeth During the Holidays in Colorado Springs
Seasons greetings from the team at All Smiles Dental Group! Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and we’re here for you if you need us over the holidays. If you lose a filling or crack a tooth, our specialists will be ready to help. Or if you want to schedule a cleaning, just request an appointment online at a time that’s convenient for you.